Milwaukee M12™ ROCKET™ Dual Power Tower Light

The Milwaukee M12 ROCKET Dual Power Tower Light, model 2132-20, is a versatile and compact lighting solution that aims to meet the needs of professionals and DIY enthusiasts alike. After spending considerable time with this tool, I have developed a comprehensive understanding of its strengths and weaknesses. Let's dive into the details.

Design and Build Quality

From the moment you unbox the M12 Tower Light, its compact and lightweight design stands out. Weighing just under 7 pounds and collapsing down to 31 inches, it is incredibly portable and easy to store. The robust construction, featuring impact-resistant reinforced legs and a protective guard for the light head, ensures durability on even the most rugged job sites. The light head itself rotates 210 degrees and pivots 270 degrees, providing excellent flexibility in directing the light exactly where you need it.

Performance

The M12 Tower Light offers two brightness modes: 1400 lumens on high and 700 lumens on low. The light output is impressive, especially considering its compact size. It provides sufficient illumination for small to medium-sized workspaces, making it ideal for tasks like automotive repairs, electrical work, and even camping trips. However, if you're looking to light up a large area, you might find it lacking compared to more powerful models.

One of the standout features is the dual power capability. You can run the light on Milwaukee's M12 batteries or plug it into an extension cord for continuous operation. This flexibility is invaluable, especially when working on long projects where battery life might become an issue.

Battery Life

Battery life is always a crucial factor for cordless tools, and the M12 Tower Light holds its ground fairly well. With a 6.0Ah battery, you can expect about 4 hours of runtime on high and up to 10 hours on low. The built-in battery level indicator is a handy feature, allowing you to keep track of your remaining power without having to guess.

Ease of Use

Setting up the M12 Tower Light is a breeze. The legs deploy smoothly, and the telescopic pole extends effortlessly to a maximum height of 5 feet 8 inches. However, the lack of a locking mechanism for intermediate heights is a notable drawback. The light tends to slide down if not fully extended or collapsed, which can be frustrating during use.

Another significant issue is the battery removal process. The battery compartment is quite tight, making it challenging to remove the battery without some fiddling. This design flaw can be particularly bothersome if you frequently switch between battery and corded operation.

Practical Applications

During my time with the M12 Tower Light, I found it to be incredibly useful in various scenarios. It excelled in tight spaces where traditional lighting solutions were impractical. For example, it made under-the-hood automotive repairs much more manageable and provided ample light for electrical work in dimly lit basements. Its portability also made it a great companion for outdoor activities like camping and emergency lighting during power outages.

What Could Be Improved

While the M12 Tower Light has many strengths, there are areas where it could benefit from improvements. The most glaring issue is the battery removal process. Milwaukee needs to address this to make it more user-friendly. Additionally, incorporating a more reliable locking mechanism for the telescopic pole would significantly enhance the overall user experience.

Another potential enhancement could be the inclusion of a built-in battery charger when plugged into an AC outlet. This would eliminate the need to swap out batteries and ensure the light is always ready to go.

Final Thoughts

The Milwaukee M12 ROCKET Dual Power Tower Light is a well-designed, versatile tool that offers excellent portability and flexibility. Its compact size and lightweight build make it easy to transport and set up, while the dual power capability ensures you won't be left in the dark during extended projects. The light output is more than adequate for most tasks, though it may fall short in lighting up larger areas.

Despite its minor flaws, such as the challenging battery removal and lack of intermediate height locking, the M12 Tower Light proves to be a valuable addition to any tool collection. Its robust construction, ease of use, and practical applications make it a reliable choice for both professionals and DIY enthusiasts.

Recommendation

I would recommend the Milwaukee M12 ROCKET Dual Power Tower Light for those who need a portable, versatile lighting solution for small to medium-sized tasks. Its compact design, dual power capability, and robust build quality make it a reliable tool for various applications. However, if you frequently work in large spaces or require a tool with an easy battery removal process, you might want to consider other options. Overall, the pros far outweigh the cons, making this a solid investment for your lighting needs.